A manhunt is underway in Carroll County after two sheriff’s deputies were shot while responding to a welfare check Friday night. One deputy died from injuries sustained in the shooting, while the second was struck in a ballistic vest and is reported to be stable after medical evaluation.
The Carroll County Sheriff’s Office says the suspect is Michael Puckett, and authorities are warning the public that he should be considered “armed and extremely dangerous.” Anyone who spots him or has information about his location is being told not to approach and to call 911 immediately.
What happened during the response
According to the Sheriff’s Office, dispatchers received a request for a welfare check at 13658 Fancy Gap Highway at about 9:26 p.m. on May 29, 2026. When two deputies arrived and made contact with Puckett, he opened fire, and the deputies returned fire.
The agency said both deputies were hit by gunfire during the exchange. One deputy later died from the injuries, marking a deadly turn in what began as a routine welfare check call.
Search efforts continue for the suspect
The Sheriff’s Office has not released additional details about the ongoing search, but the manhunt remains active as investigators and law enforcement officers work to locate Puckett. Authorities have emphasized that the public should stay away from him if he is seen.
Officials are urging anyone with even minor information about his whereabouts to contact emergency dispatch right away. The warning reflects the level of concern around the case and the risk posed to anyone who might encounter him.
Deputy wounded, but stable
The second deputy was hit in his ballistic vest, which likely helped prevent a more severe injury. He is now receiving medical evaluation and is reported to be stable.
The Sheriff’s Office has not provided further information on the condition of the deputies or the circumstances that led to the initial welfare check. The case remains under active investigation as the search for Puckett continues.
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